Enacted in 1984, the YOA contains several controversial provisions, and reforms to the act are being considered. Articles in the journal issue consider options for Canada's juvenile justice system in the 21st Century, limits of the YOA, interprovincial variations in the use of custody for young offenders, youth policies that promote community safety, alternatives to incarceration, effects of youth offending in adult life, and the need to reform the YOA in response to violent young offenders. Important provisions of the YOA are outlined and evaluated that focus on specialized youth courts and correctional programs, youth offenses and sentencing, child welfare authorities, and due process rights. Critics and supporters discuss the YOA in the context of juvenile custody, rehabilitation, and treatment. References, notes, tables, and figures